What is a DEXA Scan?

A DEXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) scan is a medical imaging technology that measures bone density and body composition. Since DEXA relies on low-energy X-ray beams, the image shows bone. These beams have different peak energy frequencies to target bones and tissues. This high-precision imaging test has been around for decades, and DEXA was introduced for commercial use in 1987.

What Results will the DEXA Bone Density Scan in San Francisco (Oakland), CA provide?

• Overall Bone Mineral Density (BMD)

• Spine Bone Mineral Density

• Segmented Spine Bone Mineral Density

• Hip Bone Mineral Density

• Segmented Hip Bone Mineral Density

• 10-Year Fracture Risk

• Z-score

• T-score

• 1:1 call with MD (after you receive your results online)

Why Should I complete a DEXA bone density scan?

DEXA is the gold standard for understanding bone density. The test uses X-rays to measure how many grams of calcium and other minerals are packed into a segment of bone. Medical experts consider DEXA bone density scans to be the most useful, easy, and inexpensive test for helping to diagnose certain medical conditions, included osteoporosis.

Here are a few reasons you might want to complete a DEXA Scan in San Francisco (Oakland), CA:

• Monitor bone loss

• Family history of osteoporosis or bone fractures

• Previous bone fractures

• Improve bone loss

• Track overall health

• Improve longevity

Do I need a referral from a GP to get a DEXA bone density scan in California?

Yes. The great news is that Fitnescity handles orders when the DEXA scan provider requires one. Fitnescity works with a national network of board-certified physicians to coordinate the process remotely when you purchase a scan through Fitnescity. Once you finalize scheduling for your DEXA bone density scan appointment, you will receive a link to complete forms which will be sent to Fitnescity’s independent network of referring doctors. This allows you to get an order without taking time off work to obtain one or paying fees to visit your doctor.

What can I expect from a DEXA bone density scan appointment in San Francisco (Oakland), CA?

• The test administrator will record your height and weight, either by asking you directly or measuring on site.

• The scan will last for about 20 minutes; the appointment for about 45 minutes.

*Please inform us if you are over 350lbs or over 6’3 tall as some DEXA machines have size restrictions.

How should I prepare for my DEXA bone density scan in San Francisco (Oakland), CA?

• Wear comfortable clothes, such as gym attire.

• Do not wear any items with metal or hard plastic, such as buttons, zippers, jewelry, watches, hair clips, bras with metal clasps or underwires.

• Do not take any calcium supplements (including multivitamins or antacids) 24 hours before testing.

• Inform the test administrator if you have any metal in your body, such as a pin or replacement joint.

• No fasting required, however some consider best practice to be a 4 hour fast prior to the scan.

• Please note that DEXA bone density scans do subject you to small amounts of radiation. A whole body scan produces a level of radiation equivalent to flying by airplane from New York to California.

• Due to the radiation described above, if you believe you may be pregnant, please refrain from doing the DEXA bone density scan. 

Is the DEXA scan safe?

One of the biggest concerns that people have about DEXA bone density scans is safety in terms of radiation. You’ll be pleased to know that the DEXA bone density scan is safe. This type of scan uses a significantly lower level of radiation than standard X-rays. In fact, this noninvasive scan involves minimum radiation, which is comparable to flying from New York City to Los Angeles.

Although a DEXA bone density scan is painless, noninvasive, and generally safe, it’s not suitable for everyone. People under the age of 18 years shouldn’t get a DEXA bone density scan. The scan isn’t suitable for pregnant women and people who are unable to stay still for 10 to 15 minutes.

Will I be able to understand my DEXA bone density scan results?

Interpreting DEXA bone density scan results is easier than you think. When you do a DEXA scan with Fitnescity, you get access to your dashboard and a read report completed by a physician. There, you can see your results and learn what the values represent. Your dashboard also shows how you compare to other people of the same age or gender.

Fitnescity also gives you the option to speak 1:1 with a physician, should you have any questions about your results and how you can use them.

Your dashboard shows all results in detail and describes what they mean. That way you gain insight into your health status and what lifestyle modifications to implement for better values next time.

How much does the DEXA bone density scan in San Francisco (Oakland), CA cost?

When completed under the right conditions, DEXA typically costs $150-220 per scan, depending on whether you get a package or a single test. Outside of San Francisco (Oakland), CA, the price varies by geography and provider. You can find the cost of the DEXA bone density scan nearest you using following this link.

Will insurance cover my DEXA bone density scan in San Francisco (Oakland), CA?

DEXA bone density scans through Fitnescity are not covered by insurance. You can, however, use your FSA/HSA plan to cover the scan.

How often should I complete a DEXA bone density scan?

How often you should complete a DEXA scan depends on your bone density risk factors and age, but you may need to do a DEXA scan every two to five years or sooner. You want to complete your DEXA bone density scan at the same San Francisco (Oakland), CA location for increased test-to-test repeatability.

Are there any other test locations in San Francisco (Oakland), CA?

Fitnescity is the national leader in DEXA bone density, DEXA body composition, VO2 Max, and RMR testing. You can find hundreds of locations nationally under this locator: DEXA scans near me.

Is there a weight limit for the DEXA Scan?

The weight limit is 350lbs.

For other locations, please visit the individual location’s page using this DEXA Scan Finder.